As one of the participants in the world’s first T20 International (T20I), the New Zealand T20I team has had its fair share of thrilling battles. In this article, let’s take a look at three famous matches in the New Zealand T20I record.

Top 3 Matches in New Zealand T20I History

1. Australian Cricket Team in New Zealand in 2004–05

As the first official Twenty20 International match in New Zealand T20I history and the world, this game unfolded in a relaxed and easygoing atmosphere, as T20 was not highly regarded at the time. The Black Caps’ opponents were their neighbors, the Australia T20I team. Both teams showcased a retro 1980s cricket style through their attire, adding a unique touch for the spectators. Although the New Zealand T20I team lost the match by 44 runs, it didn’t discourage many. Instead, it left both players and fans feeling refreshed and excited about this new format.

2. 2016 World Twenty20

After reaching the knockout stage in the first edition, the Kiwis had gone nearly 10 years without advancing further in New Zealand T20I history. In 2016, the team broke this curse in India. In the semi-final, they faced the England T20I team, where Martin Guptill and Kane Williamson became the second pair to score 1,000 runs in a partnership in T20Is. However, England’s dominance prevailed, and they ultimately won by 7 wickets. Although the Kiwis didn’t secure victory, they broke their long-standing New Zealand T20I record, signaling a new chapter for the future.

3. 2021 Men’s T20 World Cup

The 2021 T20 World Cup final featured an Oceania showdown! Both Australia and the New Zealand T20I team were aiming for their first T20 World Cup title. The Black Caps started strong, with Daryl Mitchell and Martin Guptill performing excellently against Australia’s bowlers, and Williamson scoring 85 runs, matching Marlon Samuels’ record from the 2016 final. However, Australia’s Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh teamed up for a late rally, striking back against New Zealand with seven balls remaining to claim the title. This was the closest time to winning the T20 World Cup on New Zealand T20I history, and it remains the best season in New Zealand T20I record.

New Zealand T20I Team：Rise Above, Black Caps

T20 is a relatively new format, and the New Zealand T20I team has yet to win any World Cup titles. However, their performances in tours and series are certainly worth noting. Want to see more of the Black Caps in action? Be sure to stay tuned to All IPL criclive and let’s see what surprises still lie ahead in the New Zealand T20I record.